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Reflective Glass Facades and Sustainable Wood Integration in a Nature-Inspired Retreat

Authors:
Jan-hubert Bisschops, Merijn Hermsen
Reflective Glass Facades and Sustainable Wood Integration in a Nature-Inspired Retreat

Project in-detail

Reflective glass facades create a seamless connection with the surrounding landscape while cross-laminated timber panels enhance sustainability in a meditative retreat designed for introspection and relaxation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reflective glass facades are strategically positioned to maximize natural light while minimizing visual obstruction.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels offer enhanced structural integrity and sustainability throughout the design.
03
Charred wooden shingles create a distinctive weather-resistant surface that integrates with the natural setting.
04
The bent A-frame design optimizes thermal performance and supports natural ventilation within the space.
05
Pathways are designed to harmonize with the surrounding landscape, promoting a thoughtful user experience.
The architectural project, "On Reflection," is designed as a meditative retreat that emphasizes the relationship between the built environment and nature. It integrates reflective design elements to enhance interaction with the surrounding landscape, creating a space that supports personal introspection and tranquility. The retreat's configuration allows occupants to experience a seamless dialogue with nature while engaging in various activities such as contemplation, relaxation, and work.

Design features include a series of cabins organized within a natural grove, designed to minimize the impact on the landscape while enhancing views of the surrounding flora and fauna. The layout promotes exploration through interconnected pathways, ensuring accessibility and encouraging users to move through the environment at their own pace. Each cabin is crafted with a focus on creating intimate spaces that facilitate moments of solitude without complete separation from the outside world.

Unique Design Approaches

One of the most distinguishing aspects of "On Reflection" is its use of reflective materials. The extensive use of glass in the cabin design creates a visual continuity with the landscape, allowing natural light to permeate interior spaces while also providing views that change with the time of day. The reflections generated by these surfaces invite the natural scenery into the space, effectively merging interior and exterior environments. This approach reinforces the meditative intent of the retreat, allowing occupants to engage in self-reflection while remaining conscious of their surroundings.

The project also incorporates sustainable design principles, including green roof elements that promote biodiversity and stabilize building temperatures. The careful selection of natural materials such as wood and stone not only enhances aesthetic value but also ensures that the structures blend seamlessly with their environment. This consideration of materiality reflects a deep understanding of the site's ecological context and contributes to the overall purpose of providing a retreat that is in harmony with nature.

Function and Integration with Nature

"On Reflection" functions primarily as a retreat focused on personal reflection and relaxation. The design includes dedicated spaces for meditation, quiet contemplation, and informal gatherings, providing flexibility in how occupants choose to engage with the environment. Each element of the project is thoughtfully designed to encourage mindfulness, from the layout of the cabins to the placement of seating and gathering areas within the natural landscape.

The project exemplifies a contemporary approach to architecture by prioritizing simplicity and transparency. By minimizing visual barriers between the built environment and the natural surroundings, "On Reflection" cultivates an experience that is both immersive and restorative. The design fosters an environment where occupants can connect deeply with themselves and the natural world.

For those interested in exploring "On Reflection" further, detailed architectural plans, sections, and design iterations offer additional insights into the project’s unique characteristics. Engaging with these materials will enhance understanding of the architectural ideas that underpin this thoughtful design.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

Microhome

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € PRIZE FUND / KINGPSAN EDITION #10 IDEAS COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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